Standing among the ruins, did Youden truly appreciate the work he created for his nation. Years of the making led to this, and one of the effects was that Nikao ceased to exist. Maybe still on paper, but in reality, things looked so different than he had anticipated. Even after several weeks of his ground forces moving about through the space, did they see the destruction that still laid before them. Over eighty percent of the city was completely destroyed with only mere concrete blocks and structures littered about. Somehow though, did the army division stationed here actually find more survivors than anticipated in these ruins.
Hundreds, if not, several thousand of Nikao citizens were found under the rubble as Youden's soldiers pulled them up. Many of them had strange-looking bruises that lit up their skin and a complete loss of energy. Then again, one wouldn't be surprised considering the fact that they survived a bomb of that magnitude. It was still a miracle to even survive in the first place.
"So, does anyone know how the food situation is going?" Youden waved one of the aides responsible over.
"Sir, we're getting several tons shipped each and every day, and the stockpile is no longer running low. Things are coming under control." the aide reassured him.
"That's good. Carry on, we have so much more to do." Youden began making his way to the chauffeur driver assigned to him.
Carefully moving through the stone rubble, he managed to close in on the vehicle, until he noted a small creature standing across what was once a street. On top of what appeared to be a pile of wood and brick, stood a young boy, eyes filled with rage staring down the powerful man. His ragged and dirty clothes moved through the light breeze, as Youden could see the boy's hand bleeding from keeping such a closed fist together.
"Sir, is there a problem?" the chauffeur noticed what the man was looking at, as he pulled out a revolver.
"No need, just carry on." Youden simply said, as he started smiling back at the young kid. "As for you boy, be grateful that you're still alive."
Not even looking back, Youden was assisted into the vehicle, barely glancing back at the boy who still stood in place. That kid didn't even budge, and who knew what was really going to happen in the days to come. Regardless, his main concern was still on the battles happening on the other continent, with the main bridgehead being established and the fate of both sides being determined based upon it. He had to make sure things were going smoothly or else things would all backfire onto him. He couldn't afford to have any more problems coming about, and every available asset would be needed to keep things up. The aggression would only escalate from here, and there would be no doubt about it.